I have been receiving many inquiries concerning "Yoga exercises" which today are very popular among the general public and have become part of the Physical Education program in most high schools.

Most people in our North American cultural environment will accept any and every spiritual path, no matter how alien it may be to the Christian Faith.

There is no doubt that Yoga is an integral part of the mental and physical disciplines and practices of Buddhism. Yoga is based on the philosophy that there is suffering in life and it is caused by mental defilements and the state of our ego. It puts forth a path of mental and physical practices in order to weaken and alleviate these tendencies of mind and ego which create individual pain.

The physical postures of Yoga are used to prepare the mind and body to be more open to, understanding of, strong and disciplined enough to practice these teachings in their entirety. Yoga as exercise is the first level of this Buddhist path.

The implementation of the various paths of Yoga brings about a change in one’s consciousness. States of consciousness that are already part of our being are accessed, strengthened and cultivated, step by step. These states are tranquility, concentration and mindfulness, among others. Yoga exercises are considered part of the path to true enlightenment.

Orthodox Christians believe that only our Lord is the path to true enlightenment, "I am the way". Any other path that presents itself as a path to true enlightenment, is a dangerous threat that leads away from Christ. It does not teach "A Life in Christ". It offers an alternative to the "Life in Christ". The road that leads to a cliff is not an alternative. The only viable road is the one that will lead you safely to your destination.

The practice of Yoga is contrary to the Faith of the Church and Orthodox Christians should avoid participation in such classes. If you have any comments or questions, just post them to our Egroup.